Question from Readers:
Do you think Oinosato’s strength is genuine?
Reflections on Oinosato’s Strength
Recently, there has been much discussion regarding Oinosato’s strength. Honestly, I believe his abilities are real. Of course, comparisons with other rikishi are inevitable, but I don’t think his strength can be attributed merely to “having a good day.” In particular, his victories against formidable opponents such
as Wakatakakage, Kotonowaka, and Takayasu cannot be overlooked. It is precisely because his relative strength has been proven that we can trust in his abilities. While comparing him to past rikishi can lead to interesting debates, we must not forget that today’s rikishi are competing in real-time. Each era of rikishi has its own unique strengths.
The Challenges of Yokozuna Sumo
However, he does face challenges. The key issue is whether he can execute Yokozuna-style sumo. His fighting style sometimes includes slaps and unexpected moves, which may be criticized. Without the scrutiny of the media and public, there could be leniency towards Japanese rikishi. In such situations, I worry about how he will handle the pressure. Nonetheless, if he can secure a victory against Hoshoryu, his reputation will surely rise even higher. Having come this far, I strongly wish to see him overcome the hurdles ahead.
About the Other Rikishi
It is true that the surrounding rikishi may seem somewhat unreliable. At this rate, only Oinosato will stand out. I hope the other rikishi will step up their game to enhance his achievements. If the level of the other rikishi is low, it inevitably makes him appear stronger than he may actually be.
In Conclusion
The genuineness of strength is demonstrated relatively. I believe Oinosato sufficiently meets this criterion, and I look forward to his continued growth. I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and feelings in the comments while watching the rikishi’s performances. Let’s ponder together what true strength really means.